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South Africa

South Africa’s vast and sprawling landscape is painted in history. It has stood through time, its diverse and magical scenery offering homes to exotic and majestic wildlife, from rhinos to lions. The sea is perfect for surfing and the wilderness a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

There is also South Africa’s political history and visitors can learn from the museums and tours on offer, educating old and new generations about Apartheid. With so much to see, it’s worth having a little knowledge about the various sights and attractions. Here are a handful that reflect the great diversity of things to do and see in this awesome part of the world.

More about South Africa

It almost seems as if one trip to this astonishing destination might only skim the surface of all the wide, varied and vibrant attractions on offer in South Africa. Few places in the world can offer such diversity of landscape.

And yet any of its attractions offer a taste of something extraordinary and suggest a truly memorable and exciting experience. From safari drives to the perfect wave and a vital, significant history, South Africa is the kind of place to keep visitors coming back to catch another glimpse at all the wonder within this huge, historic landscape.

All South Africa flights

Top 5 things to do in South Africa

Hluhluwe National Park

This stunning open Savannah scenery is bursting with history and precious wildlife. Visitors will be struck by the landscape alone, but expect to be equally moved by the sight of black and white rhinos, a species fighting to survive because of poaching. You can also expect to see lions, leopards and cheetahs and a whole rainbow of exotic birds. It’s an experience to be relished and to be remembered. The trip to see these sacred and serene animals is alone worth a trip to South Africa.

Robben Island

No trip to South Africa can be made without a trip to Robben Island. From the 17th to 20th centuries, it served as a hospital military base and prison for political prisoners – most notably Nelson Mandela. It has witnessed the deep sorrow from Apartheid, but also the freedom and joy of prisoners being released. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site and one that resonates with history, and the greatness of those who had to suffer.

Durban

Any trip to the diverse landscape of South Africa deserves a surfing expedition and there are few better spots than Durban. Home to both experienced and emerging surfers, Durban plays host to some exciting tournaments. Rich in reef and beach breaks, some of the best beaches to try are North Beach and Baggies where the water is warm and the air hot and humid – an ideal mix for any surfing fan.

Apartheid Museum

Like Robben Island, a trip here seems vital if you are to understand the huge and complicated South African history. There are a number of exhibitions to see, from the Pillars of the Constitution, to Race Classification. The museum can be found in Johannesburg and charts the 1800s and the various journeys made across southern Africa for gold. It triggered South Africa’s reasoning behind Apartheid.

Kruger National Park

Such a rich landscape as South Africa’s is worth seeing up close and Kruger National Park shows nature at its most wild and natural. The ethos here is to celebrate it all in its natural, untouched glory. Expect Wilderness Trails and Sunset Drives, where visitors can get up close to the wild animals, witnessing grazing beasts and predators warming up for night hunts. It’s a magnificent window into nature.

10 facts about South Africa

1.

South Africa boasts the oldest mountain in the world.

2.

It also boasts the cheapest electricity!

3.

South Africa is the only country to voluntarily abandon its nuclear weapon program.

4.

It is the largest manufacturer of the delicious macadamia nut.

5.

Did you know hippos get sunburn? Look out for these hot and bothered mammals dipping their noses in water to keep the sun off their faces.

6.

There is the earliest evidence of life in South Africa – a blue-green algae has been found, dating back 3,500 million years.

7.

The oldest human remains have been found in South Africa – over 100,000 years old.

8.

There are 2000 shipwrecks in South Africa, each telling their piece of history.